Things To Do
in Sudan
Sudan sits at Africa's crossroads, where the Nile's lifeblood nourishes a landscape that spans deserts, savannas, and lush riverbanks. Its cities blend bustling markets with centuries-old mosques and modern cafés, inviting curious travelers to linger. From the confluence of the Blue and White Nile in Khartoum to the ancient pyramids of Meroe, Sudan's heritage is as varied as its scenery.
Plan for warm hospitality, shifting seasons, and a pace that rewards slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Khartoum, where the Blue and White Nile converge. Visit the bustling Souq al-Joumhouriya, where you can experience the vibrant market scene and immerse yourself in local culture. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional Sudanese breakfast items like fool medames.
In the afternoon, head to the Sudan National Museum to explore artifacts that tell the rich history of Sudan's ancient civilizations. Stroll through the picturesque Tuti Island, where you can relax by the riverside and enjoy the natural scenery. Taste local delicacies at a nearby café for lunch, giving you a taste of Sudanese cuisine.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a traditional Sudanese restaurant overlooking the rivers, where you can enjoy the meal while watching the Nile flow by. Experience traditional music and dance performances that showcase Sudan's rich cultural heritage. End your night with a relaxing walk along the Nile, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Travel to Omdurman, the cultural hub of Sudan, and start your morning at the Omdurman Souq, one of the largest markets in Africa. Explore a variety of stalls selling everything from spices to handicrafts, and take in the lively atmosphere. Be sure to try a refreshing Sudanese drink made from hibiscus flowers.
Visit the Mahdi's Tomb and learn about Sudan's history during the Mahdist Revolution. Take a short trip to the nearbyshauna mausoleum and museum showcasing the country's Islamic heritage. For lunch, enjoy traditional Sudanese cuisine at a local restaurant renowned for its flavourful dishes.
As evening falls, enjoy a sunset camel ride along the banks of the Nile, offering unique views of the horizon. After your ride, indulge in a dinner featuring local seafood dishes while enjoying traditional music. Conclude the day with a relaxed stroll in the vibrant streets of Omdurman.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.25-1 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a rich, ancient history
- Affordability and value for money
- Diverse landscapes from riverine cities to desert pyramids
- Accessible major-city hub in Khartoum with growing tourist infrastructure
- Infrastructure outside major cities can be limited
- Seasonal heat and regional security considerations
- Variable internet and mobile connectivity in rural areas
- Occasional visa and travel advisory uncertainties
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Sudan
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour views at the river junction with boats, bridges, and skyline silhouettes make for iconic Nile photography.
Desert dunes framed by Nubian pyramids create dramatic, otherworldly portraits and wide-angle landscape shots.
Historic interiors and bustling street scenes capture everyday life and architectural details.
Ancient temples set against open plains; sunrise or sunset offers dramatic light on rock formations.
Food in Sudan
Sudan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin sour flatbread served with a spiced meat and tomato stew. A staple pairing found in most local eateries.
Must-Try!
A warm, doughy porridge served with savory or sweet sauces; commonly enjoyed for lunch or during family gatherings.
Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with onions and herbs, served with kisra or bread and sometimes a chili oil kick.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market district with stalls offering spices, fresh produce, fried snacks, and daily essentials; great for tasting street food and observing daily life.
A bustling bazaar where you can shop for herbs, nuts, breads, and traditional fabrics; ideal for an immersive local experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress conservatively in public: shoulders and knees covered. Women travelers should consider looser clothing and avoid tight outfits in non-tourist areas.
Respect local customs, especially during prayer times and Ramadan. Avoid showing public displays of affection in informal settings.
A handshake is common; use the right hand for interactions. When in doubt, let locals lead the pace of conversation or touch.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in markets or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Sudan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service. In restaurants, 5–10% is common if service is not included. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, small tips (a few dollars or equivalent) are appreciated.
Cash (USD or local currency) is widely used in markets and casual eateries. Some hotels and larger establishments accept credit cards, but ATMs can be limited outside major cities. Carry small denominations for tips and incidental purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April–June can bring extreme heat (often above 40°C/104°F). Stay hydrated, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Humidity is higher along the Red Sea coast.
June–September can bring sporadic rainfall in central and southern regions, potentially affecting travel times and road conditions. Short downpours can occur quickly—plan for flexible itineraries.
November–February offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures (often 15–25°C/59–77°F). A good time for city tours, ruins visits, and outdoor activities without the midday scorch.
October and early November bring relief from peak heat and clear skies, making it a popular shoulder season for photography and exploration.
Sudan at Night
Hiking in Sudan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic temple complex with nearby rocky trails and panoramic views across the surrounding savanna.
Desert hikes around the pyramids and dunes provide dramatic light and photo opportunities.
Gentle ridge walks with canyon scenery and views toward the Red Sea hills (check local safety and access).
Airports
How to reach Sudan by plane.
The main international gateway to Sudan; serves regional and international flights. Taxis and hotels provide easy onward access to Khartoum city.
Coastal gateway near Port Sudan with both domestic and some international services; useful for Red Sea access.
Domestic hub in South Darfur for regional flights; not as widely served as Khartoum.
North Darfur airport with domestic connections; essential when visiting northern regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group; Arabic is the dominant language with a strong cultural influence on daily life.
Concentrated along the Nile in the far north, with distinct languages and cultural traditions.
Eastern regions host Beja communities and clusters of people with varied dialects and customs.
Represent Darfur and central regions with diverse heritage and histories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; large crowds attend matches in cities and towns across the country.
Traditional sport in rural and desert-adjacent communities, often tied to cultural celebrations.
Growing interest in urban centers with local leagues and school competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many places, such as ful, kisra-based dishes, and bean stews. Ask for no meat stock or hidden broth, and request oils and herbs for flavor.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sudan.